Exploring Bhutan

When to Visit

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Many people will tell you that spring and autumn, March-April and September-November are the best months to visit Bhutan and we understand the appeal. However, we think you can go any time depending on the experience you’re seeking. Those two seasons are essentially when the weather is most mild and there are a number of festivals. November-February are when the rare black-necked cranes can be spotted and some of the clearest skies and sunniest days occur during these colder months. May is often bursting with flowers in bloom and the rains that fall June-August mean lush green landscapes and fewer visitors. So while some say that October and April are the absolute best months to visit Bhutan, we think you have more options than that.

We’ve broken down the seasons with a bit of insight into what makes each season great – and what the downsides are. As temperatures vary across the country given the changes in elevation, we’ve given average temperatures for Thimphu only as you’ll almost certainly head through the capital city at some point!

Autumn: September – November

September is a true shoulder month and if you’re worried about rain or cloudy skies, it’s best to go later in the month as the monsoons have typically moved out by then. October sees the highest number of tourists as the weather is mild, skies are clear, and toward the end (although sometimes not until November), the black-necked cranes appear. October and November rival March and April for ideal trekking months and there are numerous festivals making these months a good time to get a taste of everything.

September averages can be as high as 15-24 ℃ while October and November see 6-22 ℃.

Spring: March – May

March might be one of the best months to visit as the weather is a bit warmer and the April “crowds” haven’t arrived yet. Flowers bloom and birdsong fills the air and you’ll get that wonderful “spring is here” feeling in much of the country. March and April tend to be dry (it’s snow melt, not rain, that brings spring flowers) making them some of the best months for trekking. Temperatures in March are only slightly warmer than February and take a jump in April and May with averages of 7-23 ℃.

Rains can begin in May and before they do, humidity creeps up. Some count this month as part of the summer monsoon season although as we all know, the seasons are no longer quite so predictable as they once were.

Winter: December – February

December has some of the clearest blue skies so while there’s a chill in the air, this can be a photographer’s dream, especially if there’s snow on the mountains. Snow can, of course, mean road closures so if your time is tight and you want to explore further afield, this isn’t the best time to visit. Festivals are held in various parts of the country with the schedule changing annually. February has some truly special ones in the eastern region and by then, it’s a bit warmer in the valleys and road closures are less likely. The rare black-necked cranes can often be spotted in the Phobjikha Valley during these months so if you don’t mind the possibility of road closures around Gangtey, this can be a great time to go.

Average temperatures throughout these months in Thimphu hover around 0-14℃ so if you’re looking to flee winter, Bhutan is not for you at this time of year!

Summer: June – August

There’s no way around it: these months are the wettest of the year so if the chance of rain isn’t your idea of a holiday, this is not the season for you. If you don’t mind muddy shoes, overcast skies, and possibly a washed out road or two causing a delay, this can be a delightful time to visit. Few people make the trip so you’ll have more time at monasteries and scenic spots to bask in the beauty and frame your photos. The rare blue poppy blooms and wild mushrooms proliferate – of course, you’ll need to head off the beaten track to look for these. There can be a slight cost savings during these months and some hotels close in July.

Temperatures of 17-25 ℃ are common and can exceed 30 ℃, especially in the east.

Paro

Home to the country's only international airport and the well-known cliffside Paro Taktsang or Tiger's Nest monastery, your holiday will almost certainly start and end here.

Thimphu

This capital city is the largest in the nation and although it's becoming more modern, it maintains its historic character and charm. Home to many museums and other sights that provide insight into Bhutanese culture, Thimphu is worth at least two nights on your holiday.

Punakha

Generally considered the most beautiful fortress in a country full of stunning buildings, Punakha Dzong alone makes it worth visiting this small city in a subtropical valley. The drive over mountain passes is memorable and on a clear day, the views are spectacular.

Gangtey

If you're hoping to see black-necked cranes, the Gangtey region will be on your itinerary. Late October is typically the best month to see these rare birds coming through although you may see them all the way into February.

Bumthang

Many call this the cultural heart of the country, and if time allows for a visit to Bumthang, you'll be well rewarded. Bring good walking shoes as some of the best sights are seen on foot.